Being a linebacker/defensive end during his high school days at Highlands, and a redshirt year at Texas A&M-Kingsville, the 6-foot-2, 260-pound McClain knew it would be a different role. At the same time, he was motivated to give his best shot.

For McClain, it was a good opportunity to break into the starting lineup sooner as a defensive tackle. There was also a personal reason.

McClain's younger brother (Rogelio Lopez) died of a heart ailment during his year at A&M-Kingsville. Rogelio's position in football happened to be defensive tackle.

In honor of Rogelio, McClain was more than happy to make the move.

“It was sad, because he was only 16 years old,” McClain said. “We always talked about playing together again. We had a chance to in Pop Warner when I was an end and he was a tackle. After he died, I wanted to play for him.”

McClain became defensive force during Incarnate Word's 5-5 season last year. He recorded 60 tackles, while also being ranked 20th in NCAA Division II football with 1.50 stops a game for losses.

Although Incarnate Word played an independent schedule during its first season, McClain received national recognition after earning second team honors on the www.d2football.com “All-Independent” team.

It was a good beginning, but McClain wants to do more, especially with Incarnate Word moving into the Lone Star Conference, considered one of the strongest in NCAA Division II football.

“I definitely feel good going into this year,” McClain said. “I want to work harder. I don't want to be known as a one-year wonder type. It's going to be tougher playing in the Lone Star Conference.” McClain and Incarnate Word got a sample of what to expect in the LSC a year ago while going against Midwestern State (a 49-7 loss) and East Central Oklahoma (38-20 win). Although McCLain never played at A&M-Kingsville, he was involved in daily workouts and watched the Javelinas' home games. That was more than enough exposure to make him realize what was needed to make the grade in the LSC.

“That year as a redshirt really helped me prepare for college football,” McClain said. “When you come out of high school, everyone is good. Then, you're going against older players who have been around the block. It helped make me tougher.”

Whatever the case, he'll have his younger brother on his mind.

“I feel like he is always with me when I'm out there,” McClain said. “Sometimes I even talk to him. He is always with me and I want to do well for him.”